Aircraft that will operate from the ship’s deck

F-35B

Capable of travelling at speeds of up to Mach 1.6, up to 36 Lockheed Martin F-35B aircraft will operate from Queen Elizabeth.

The state-of-the-art multi-role fighter is designed to perform ground attack and air defence missions and can land vertically, like the old Harrier Jump Jet.

Trials of the aircraft from the new carrier are expected to take place in the USA next year.

Merlin

Primarily an anti-submarine helicopter, four AgustaWestland Merlin’s are expected to be situated on deck alongside the F-35B.

The aircraft is also used in anti-piracy and counter-narcotics operations.

Apache attack and Chinook transport helicopters may also be stationed on the Queen Elizabeth, depending on operational circumstances.